Aligners Vs Conventional Braces: How Are They Different?

Do you want to achieve a perfect smile but can’t decide which treatment to choose? Many patients with misaligned teeth opt for orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth. Until recently, the treatment of choice for teeth alignment was conventional braces. With advancements in dental treatments, new-age options like aligners are available.If you are facing a dilemma between aligners and conventional braces, this blog will explain the differences between both treatment options and help you decide.

What are Aligners?

Aligners, commonly known by brand names like Invisalign, are clear, plastic orthodontic appliances that correct misaligned teeth. They are removable and custom-made to fit the patient’s dental arches.

Aligners work by expanding the dental arch to create additional space. Then, they slowly shift the teeth into the required position, finally making minor adjustments to give you that perfect smile.

What are Conventional Braces?

Conventional or traditional braces are made of stainless steel or ceramic and consist of brackets, wires, and elastic bands. The wires are tightened to apply gentle yet constant pressure on the teeth, slowly shifting them into the desired position. The pressure also dissolves the bone on one side of the tooth, enabling tooth movement.

How are Aligners and Conventional Braces Different?

Aesthetics

• Metal braces are easily visible as they are glued onto the teeth. Ceramic braces are comparatively more discreet, but the wires are still noticeable.
• Aligners are made of transparent material and customized to fit your teeth. They effortlessly blend in with your teeth, making them almost invisible.

Hygiene

• Practicing good oral hygiene with braces can be challenging. Food can get stuck between the brackets, leading to cavity formation. Braces also make it difficult to brush teeth properly, which can increase plaque buildup.
• Aligners are removable, so you can conveniently brush your teeth and floss regularly. Cleaning aligners is also hassle-free; you only have to brush and rinse them.

Dietary Restrictions

• Conventional braces come with a few dietary changes. You may have to stay away from hard and sticky foods like popcorn, candy, and gum for the duration of the treatment to avoid damaging the braces.
• Aligners have to be removed while eating and drinking. So you can have all your favorite foods and beverages without any restrictions.

Comfort

• Conventional braces are bulky and may feel uncomfortable in the mouth. The wires and brackets also irritate the tongue, lips, and cheeks. Some patients also experience pain due to tooth movement.
• Aligners are made of smooth material and fit your teeth snugly, causing minimal discomfort.

Dental Appointments

• The wires in conventional braces have to be adjusted every four to six weeks. Therefore, braces treatment requires frequent visits to the dentist to monitor tooth movement.
• Aligner treatment is pre-planned, and patients are given a set of trays to wear during specific time periods. These trays can be changed at home, thus reducing the frequency of dental appointments.

Treatment Cost

• Conventional braces are usually more affordable than aligners. However, the cost may vary depending on the severity and type of misalignment.
• Aligners are generally more expensive than conventional braces. The cost of treatment depends on the brand, the number of trays required, and the complexity of the case.

Effectiveness

• Conventional braces can be applied to a wide variety of cases, including severe misalignments and bite problems.
• Aligners effectively correct mild to moderate misalignments but may not successfully treat complex cases.

While conventional braces and aligners are viable options for teeth alignment, they also have advantages and disadvantages. Aligners are removable, aesthetically appealing, easy to clean, and do not require diet restrictions. However, they are more expensive and have a limited scope of treatment. Conventional braces are affordable and can treat all orthodontic problems, but they are more noticeable, uncomfortable, and harder to maintain. Talk to your dentist to choose the best option for your specific requirements.

Visit Vistaa Dental Care Centre for braces treatment in Goregaon to achieve a smile that dazzles everyone around you!